Tribute: Kishore Mohapatra – A fearless journalist who stood for poor, downtrodden

By Swagatika Bhutia

Nayagarh, Sept. 10: Kishore Mohapatra, a young and energetic Journalist of Nayagarh, passed away on Friday night.

Mohapatra was district correspondent of leading English newspaper Indus Valley Times and senior correspondent of Awaaz Media, Nayagarh. He was general secretary of Nayagarh district Digital Media Group.

The journalist is survived by his wife Mamata Mohapatra and two little sons. The youngest one is just one-year-old.

An uncompromising personality as he was, Kishore always stood for the downtrodden people. Never did he compromise his professional ethics.

Kishore’s subject understanding and firebrand reporting brought Nayagarh to media focus in recent times.

A benevolent person as he was, Kishore would help the poor and needy of the district as they visited various government offices and courts.

A strong organiser as he was, Kishore always tried to unite the scribes of the district to protect and promote their interests.

An avid traveller, Kishore used to visit various states and districts to gather practical knowledge. This had helped him to evolve as a great journalist.

Nearly, one thousand people turned up at the funeral of Kishore and paid their last tribute.

“Kishore Mohapatra belonged to a rare breed of journalists who believe in fearless and unbiased journalism.  His contribution to popularize Indus Valley Times is immense and we will remember it for all time to come.

My association with Kishore Sir is nearly three years. He used to call me very often. His affectionate call ‘Swagatika’ still resounds in my ears. His humbleness was the hallmark of his character.

Sir, you will remain etched in our sweet memory.

We pray God to give your family enough strength to bear the irreparable loss.

May your soul rest in peace.